Submitted Photo Brian Schaffer, Bismarck, hunter education coordinator, is shown in this photo. Since 1979 when hunter education requirements were established in North Dakota, more than 225,000 students have taken a course to create a safer hunting environment for all. Photo from NDGF.

Jan. 7 was the official end date for archery deer, pheasant, grouse, partridge and turkey seasons in North Dakota. While squirrel season is open through Feb 29, most of the hunting seasons are over.

With spring snow goose officially opening in February and the spring turkey season opening April 13, I need to remind you the next round of hunter education classes begins when the last hunting seasons wrap up.

State law requires anyone born after Dec. 31, 1961, to pass a certified hunter education course to hunt in the state. Hunter education is mandatory for youth who are turning 12 years old, and children can take the class at age 11.

Yes, there are classes held during summer and even a few during early fall. But remember, these courses are taught by more than 700 volunteer instructors who also have families, other hobbies and commitments as well.

So, typically we see most classes held between January and May. And once school is out, along comes summer fishing, boating, baseball and a whole gamut of other activities.

So, if you have a child, friend or relative who will need a hunter education certificate in order to

purchase a hunting license this year, now is the time to make sure that it gets on the calendar.

Youths under age 12 may still hunt with their parents or other adults before they take hunter education. There is no minimum age for hunting small game in North Dakota, but students should be age 11 before they take the class.

Since 1979 when hunter education requirements were established in North Dakota, more than 225,000 students have taken a course to create a safer hunting environment for all. It’s not just for you, but stop and think about feeling a little bit safer knowing other hunters down the road, across the slough and over the hill have completed the class as well. It’s a comprehensive course which includes wildlife management concepts, biology and the ethical and moral aspects of becoming a well-rounded hunter.

Over the coming months, around 200 different communities in North Dakota will host one of around 240 different hunter education classes.